Ann Loonam has lived in Newcastle Washington for 25 years. In 2020 she had a mental health crisis that turned her world upside down. The one constant was being able to stay in her long-time neighborhood with the help of housing assistance from a local nonprofit. Since February of 2021 she has lived in her apartment with that help. Recently, without much notice, she found out she no longer qualifies for that assistance.

This is due to a cost-of-living increase in her disability income that puts her $100 over the income limit for the program which is run through King County. July was the last month she received this help. Living on a fixed income and losing rent assistance was devastating for Ann.

In addition to being diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2020 Ann is also an 11-year breast cancer survivor living with Parkinson’s Disease.

As it stands, Ann has moved out of the apartment and her belongings are in storage. She is currently staying in temporary housing and looking for a suitable, reasonably priced apartment.

The immediate need for resources is for temporary housing until she can get settled in a new home. She’s had some setbacks since moving out of her apartment which has slowed down this entire process.

In recent years she has been involved in the community, serving on the board of the Newcastle Arts Council and participating in many community events, which she really enjoys. She also served for a short time on the Friends of the Newcastle Library board

Ann is hoping she can find a new home relatively close to Newcastle, which she loves so much and could really use your help as she navigates this challenging next part of her journey.

Thank you.